Cirque Shanghai Returns With “Dragon’s Thunder”

There are things we know and things we don’t know. For example, we don’t know if the weather will cooperate all summer. We do know, however, that one of the Pier’s awesome summer staples will be performing for audiences, rain or shine.

Straight from the Far East, the members of Cirque Shanghai are gearing up for their annual Navy Pier run, complete with all your favorite acrobatics, stunts, and…dun, dun, dun…dramatic music, please… the return of the edge-of-your-seat thrill-ride known as the “Wheel of Destiny.”

“Dragon’s Thunder,” the latest production from Cirque Shanghai, performs at Navy Pier’s Pepsi Skyline Stage from May 22­ through September 2. With more than 36 performers, this show promises to be even more spectacular than last year’s critically acclaimed “Year of the Dragon.”

And here’s a little fun fact: “Dragon’s Thunder” boasts the biggest cast ever to visit the U.S., so get ready for surprises-galore.

Among the awe-inspiring acts you’ll see: “The Chinese Flex Bar,” the heart-stopping “Gravity Swings” and the pulsing sounds of traditional “Dragon Drums.” It marks the first time in the history of Cirque Shanghai’s North American engagement that traditional Chinese Drums will be an integral part of the performance.

Of course, let’s not forget the members of the daredevil motorcycle group “Imperial Thunder.” The stunt team ups the ante with up to five riders dodging each other inside a giant steel globe.

The all-ages, family-friendly performance serves as a great highlight for a daylong family outing. Grab some food at one of our many restaurants, ride the iconic Navy Pier Ferris wheel, catch the 75-minute show (no intermissions), and cap things off with our summer fireworks display on Wednesday and Saturday nights!

Tickets go on sale now! Purchase by calling 800-745-3000, or visiting www.ticketmaster.com/shanghai. Discounted tickets for groups of 10 or more are available by calling GroupTix at 773.327.3778 or at www.grouptix.net.